Ziconotide

Ziconotide is a pain reliever that is used to treat chronic, severe pain. Unlike many painkillers, this medication does not use narcotics, so people who are allergic to narcotics or have a history of narcotic drug abuse can use it. Ziconotide works by blocking pain impulses’ signals to the brain.

Warnings/Side Effects

Patients who have a history of mental illnesses, especially psychosis, should not use this medication. Ziconotide can cause hallucinations, cognitive impairments and mood swings.

This medication must be injected intrathecally by a doctor. It should not be injected intravenously or given any other way.

Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects:

• Stiff neck
• Seizures
• Disorientation
• Fever
• Hallucinations
• Suicidal thoughts
• Fainting
• Extreme sleepiness